Program Description and Requirements

Congress has authorized the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service to
respond to watershed disasters by directing technical assistance to landowners
for stream restoration. Example practices include: removing debris from stream
channels and bridge abutments, reshaping and protecting eroding streambanks,
repairing flood control structures and reseeding damaged land areas. It should
be noted that this is not a flood prevention program, but is directed toward
restoring the site from damage sustained by the natural disaster.

In order to participate, the local sponsor (usually a county government) must
submit a request for assistance and must agree to obtain the necessary land
rights for the repair work, secure the necessary permits, and furnish local
cost share. The local sponsor is also responsible for maintenance of completed
emergency measures.

NRCS will pay 75 percent of the construction costs for EWP measures. Local
sources must then provide cash or in-kind services for the remaining 25 percent.
Landowners should request assistance through the local sponsor or call the
local NRCS office after times of natural disaster.

All programs, activities, and services of the conservation partnership are
available to people on a nondiscriminatory basis regardless of race, color,
national origin, religion, sex, age, physical ability, political affiliation,
and marital or familial status. We are all equal opportunity employers.